Keep a log of how much you drink. Make notes in your smartphone, mark up a calendar on your fridge or carry an NIAAA drinking tracker card in your wallet. Noting each drink before you drink will help you be more aware of how much you’re drinking and know when to stop.

Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Food slows down the speed at which alcohol is absorbed into your system.

Avoid salty items that can encourage you to drink more, like the freebies often served at bars.

Avoid situations that trigger the urge to drink. Triggers can be people or places, times of day or feelings that encourage you to drink even when you don’t want to.

Be polite yet firm and say “no, thanks” when you’re offered a drink you don’t want. The faster you can say no, the less likely you are to give in.